You'll Find Endless White Sand Beaches And Vibrant Nightlife At This Iconic City In Brazil

The next time you're planning a vacation in South America, do yourself a favor and visit Rio de Janeiro. Located on Brazil's southeastern coast, this bustling metropolis is home to some of the world's most beautiful beaches and some of its biggest parties. Whether you're looking for scenic beach clubs, lively nightclubs, chic cocktail bars, or late-night street parties where you can hit the dance floor with a crowd of samba dancers, Rio comes alive after dark. Of course, if you want to visit during the party, come during Carnival, the yearly festival that draws millions of revelers.

Rio de Janeiro is the heart of Latin America's most populous country, and a trip here will be like nothing else you've ever experienced. Brazil's beaches are loved even amongst the famous, with the likes of the queen of pop herself, Madonna, recently hosting a free beach party on Copacabana that attracted millions of visitors. With bars famed to stay open until the last drinker leaves, you're in for long and unforgettable nights in this iconic city alongside some of the friendliest people in South America. So do some stretching, get ready to receive a warm welcome, and prepare for the party of a lifetime. 

Brazil's oldest party, and dubbed as "The Greatest Show on Earth," is the multi-day Carnival. This is a world-renowned celebration inviting millions per year to become acquainted with the particularities of Brazilian culture, in particular the Afro influences, exemplified by the samba performances.

There is no better way to get acquainted with the real underground Samba culture of Brazil than at the weekly samba party at Pedra do Sal which absolutely cannot be missed. Supposedly the birthplace of samba in Brazil, this famous party in the Saude neighbourhood is a great place to have a beer and enjoy one of Rio's most unique festive traditions. The electric atmosphere at this traditional party draws an eclectic crowd. Tourists and locals alike gather every Monday to enjoy the history, soul, and energy of this huge street party. Grab a caipirinha cocktail from a street vendor and expect to be dragged onto the dance floor for a long night, as the party goes from 6 p.m. until around 2 a.m.

One of the best party spots in all of Rio is the Botafogo neighborhood. Located on an inlet of Guanabara Bay, Botafogo is full of bars, restaurants, and street art. Of particular interest when the sun goes down is Vian Cocktail Bar. Enjoy an award-winning cocktail while sitting around a grand piano (until the late-night dancing begins, of course). While dancing the night away, try the Senador Sour, made with gin, vermouth, citrus mix, and a pistachio sorbet. You'll also find endless beach bars along Botafogo Bay.

Once the music stops and you need some relaxing, there's no better place to visit than the world-famous Copacabana Beach. Known for its soft white sand, its volleyball players, and as a hub for visitors from every corner of the planet, Copacabana Beach is the best place to nurse a hangover. If you're lucky enough to be visiting Brazil during New Year's Eve, you'll catch one of the most spectacular shows on earth, a huge party on Copacabana Beach featuring literally tons of pyrotechnics to bring in the new year. This party is unlike anything you've ever witnessed. It is important to note that when partying at night, tourists should be wary of their belongings, as they can be targeted for theft, especially in popular neighborhoods like Copacabana or Ipanema. (Here are 13 things to avoid on a trip to Rio that can help keep you and your valuables safe.) But this is no excuse to miss a trip to Brazil, where you'll find your rhythm and surely dance till you drop.